How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Handbags

For avid thrifters and vintage enthusiasts, there can be nothing more exciting than spotting the perfect handbag. Whether the bag is straight out of the '50s or just a few years old, you can walk with confidence knowing that you won't be spotting it on every other gal's shoulder. The only pitfall is the potential smell of mildew inside bags that have been out of rotation for a while. Before you eagerly toss in the contents of your current purse, take the time to banish that mildew smell once and for all.

Fill a spray bottle half full with white vinegar.

Fill the remainder of the bottle with water.

Spritz a cotton cloth with the solution until damp.

Wipe the exterior and interior of the bag with the cloth. Apply more of the solution as necessary, until all surfaces have been cleaned.

Allow the bag to dry completely.

Use a spoon to scoop baking soda into a small sock until it is about 3/4 full.

Tightly close the top of the sock with an elastic band.

Set the sock in the bag for two days, then remove it before you take your new bag for a trial run.